Have you ever taken a client to see a home, only to have them say they don’t even want to go inside? Small, inexpensive upgrades can make a huge difference when it’s time to list. When it comes to curb appeal, Michigan Institute of Real Estate knows how to make your clients’ home stand out.
Landscaping
It may seem like a no brainer, but you’d be surprised how few homes on the market have greenery (and no, the lawn doesn’t count!). You don’t have to call in the landscaping professionals and spend $10,000 to make a home look great. Add a hanging basket, some mulch and plants, or even a flower pot to give the home a natural look without breaking the bank.
The Front Door
The front door is the focal point of the exterior of a home. You can pick up a brand new door from Lowes.com or HomeDepot.com for just $200-$300. Suggest that your client grab a bright or bold colored paint and add a wreath for an entrance sure to attract home buyers. This small investment can translate to thousands in their pocket at closing!
Outdoor Lighting
Once a house has a great curb appeal, show it off! Outdoor lighting adds an elegant touch as well as safety and security. For an easy upgrade with no wiring involved, you can purchase solar lights to illuminate a walkway or front porch. Check out some of Wayfair’s options here: wayfair.com/lighting
More Than a Mailbox
Your client’s mailbox doesn’t have to be just a functional item, it can be a stellar statement piece as well! Dress up a mailbox with a newly painted wooden post and a garden bed surrounding it. Pro tip: Paint the mailbox to match the exterior of the home!
When you think of what a buyer may ask for, it’s typically things like an updated kitchen, a certain number of bedrooms, or a finished basement. But first impressions matter, and can instantly turn a perfect home into one that a buyer will run from. Homes with great curb appeal get more offers and sell faster than homes with a plain exterior. Remember, it’s not always what’s on the inside that counts!
For more tips on how to get your listing sold fast, keep checking the Michigan Institute of Real Estate Blog. See you next time!
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